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Hill stations offer a sweet retreat and respite from the scorching heat of the plains during the summer months. If you are looking to visit a less explored hill station specifically in Andhra Pradesh, Araku Valley is where you must head to. With a variety of things to do in Araku Valley, including fun exploration of the Borra caves and witnessing the beauty of the coffee plantations, the list is diverse. There are several popular tourist attractions to explore too like waterfalls and hills to explore on the Araku trip.
10 Things To Do In Araku Valley
This scenic hill station, located about 113 kilometres from Visakhapatnam, offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
1. Visit The Borra Caves
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
If you want to start your exploration of Araku Valley with the most popular tourist attraction, consider visiting Borra Caves on your first day there. These limestone caves, located about 29 kilometres from the valley, are renowned for their stunning stalactite and stalagmite formations. The Borra Caves are noted for their unique geological features and the mesmerising play of light and shadows within them, which make them a unique spot to explore. Also, there are Hindu shrines inside the cave, where you can visit and seek blessings.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fees/Person: ₹45 onwards.
2. Explore The Coffee Plantations
Photo: Tejj / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
One of the best things to do in Araku Valley is to explore the surrounding coffee plantations. Araku Valley is renowned for its extensive coffee plantations, which produce some of the finest coffee in India. A visit to these plantations provides the travellers with an opportunity to explore the entire coffee-making process, from bean to cup. The best way to explore the plantations is via a guided tour where you get a walkthrough of the coffee plantation and also get to witness the cultivation and harvesting of coffee beans.
Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Entry Fee/Person: ₹200 onwards
3. Visit The Tribal Museum
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
The Tribal Museum in Araku Valley offers an immersive experience of the lives and cultures of the indigenous tribes of the region. It is a popular tourist attraction where you get a glimpse into the traditional art, handicrafts and textiles that are native to this place. Exhibits include ancient tools, musical instruments, and intricately designed jewellery, providing a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and customs of the Adivasi people residing in the valley.
Timings: 9:00 AM 07:00 PM
Entry Fees/Person: ₹20 onwards
4. Trek To The Ananthagiri Hills
Photo: Maniraj Madishetty / Unsplash
Among the most adventurous things to do in Araku Valley, a trek to the Ananthagiri Hills is one of the most popular experiences. It is a moderately challenging trek that takes you through lush forests and scenic landscapes. Also, the trail makes you pass through dense forests and picturesque streams, which add to the beauty of the experience. It is a small 2 Km trek where you pass through the beautiful stream that falls from a height of 50 feet, located near Borra Caves.
Location: Ananthagiri Hills, near Araku Valley
Entry Fees: Free
5. Discover The Chaparai Waterfalls
Photo: June Admiraal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Waterfalls are one of the most astounding natural wonders and the Chaparai waterfalls are one you must visit in Araku Valley. More than a waterfall, it is defined as a water cascade and is alternatively known as Dumbriguda Waterfalls. Surrounded by dense forests, the waterfalls feature an endless stream, which looks and feels stunning. One of the main highlights of this waterfall lies in the fact that several Telugu movies have been shot here owing to its beauty.
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee/Person: ₹10 onwards
6. Explore The Katiki Waterfalls
Photo: Arkadeep Meta / Wikimedia Commons
While we are on the topic of waterfalls, consider adding Katiki Waterfalls to your itinerary too. This is one of the most stunning falls, located around 19 Km from Araku Valley. Surrounded by lush greenery, the waterfalls enable the tourists to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters for a refreshing experience. Due to the location of the waterfalls at an elevation, you do have to embark on a short trek to reach the falls. The waterfall is around 50 feet high and originates from the Gosthani River.
Location: Katiki, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free
7. The Padmapuram Gardens
Photo: Daniel Kraft / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
To further immerse yourself in some nature and peace, visit Padmapuram Gardens. It is located in Araku Valley, and this beautifully landscaped garden features a wide variety of exotic and local plants. The gardens date back to the British era and offer a serene environment for tourists to indulge in. You can relax in the gardens or take a stroll around as well. There are colourful flower beds and lush lawns covering the area. The peaceful atmosphere around the gardens makes it a great spot for you to indulge in some picnic experience too.
Timings: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
Entry Fee/Person: ₹40 onwards
8. The Araku Valley Train
Photo: Billjones94 / Wikimedia Commons
One of the most unique ways to experience the beauty of Araku Valley is by taking a ride on the picturesque Araku Valley Train. This train journey, which runs between Visakhapatnam and Araku Valley, passes through lush forests, scenic hills, and several tunnels and bridges. It is not only the best way to reach the valley but you also get to immerse yourself in the stunning surroundings, adding to the beauty of the place.
Location: Visakhapatnam to Araku Valley
Entry Fee/Person: ₹145 onwards
9. Galikonda View Point
Photo: Israel Sundseth / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Your trip to a hill station is incomplete without visiting a viewpoint. If you are wondering what to do in Araku Valley, consider visiting the famous Galikonda viewpoint from the valley. It is the uppermost point in Visakhapatnam district and offers uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape and lush greenery. The strategic location between Araku Valley and Borra Caves makes this viewpoint a must-visit for tourists. Being the second highest point in the Eastern Ghats, the viewpoint is located at an elevation of 4300 feet.
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
10. Sangda Waterfalls
Photo: IM3847 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Visiting Sangda waterfalls is one of the best things to do in Araku Valley Andhra Pradesh. The waterfall is located near the Sangda village and features milky white waters with the backdrop of lush greenery around. Away from the pollution and chaos of city life, Sangda Waterfalls is one of the must-visit spots. Great for children, families and even couples and friends, you can marvel at the beauty of this natural wonder. You can explore the surrounding nature trails but picnicking isn’t allowed. Also, the base of the waterfall might not be safe for taking a dip, so avoid taking that risk as well.
Location: Sangda village, Araku Valley, Andhra Pradesh
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fee: Free
Araku Valley, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and diverse attractions, offers something for every traveller. Having a well-curated travel itinerary is vital so you can indulge in all the things to do in Araku Valley. Be it exploring the ancient caves or witnessing the beautiful scenic waterfalls, there’s a variety of experiences you can indulge in. Secure your bookings with TripXL to visit and explore Araku Valley.
Cover Photo: Moses / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
